US, Pacific Rim nations end round of trade talks

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Negotiators from the United States and eight Pacific Rim countries have concluded a round of talks in San Diego aimed at creating one of the most ambitious trade agreements in decades.

Negotiators said at a news conference Tuesday that they are waiting to hear if Japan wants to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Vietnam's delegate says he hopes Japan decides by the end of August.

The talks include Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.

Mexico and Canada are expected to join soon. The U.S. Trade Representative notified Congress this week that both countries have been invited, triggering a 90-day waiting period.